Helena Huntington Smith (1902–1971)

Definitely one of the best biographies/recollections I've ever read of the "old days" of the cattle drives from Texas to Montana. So well written that you are caught up in the vernacular immediately and soon find it natural.

A fun collection of memories of growing up on the range back when cowpunchers roamed. This book reads just like 'Teddy Blue' speaks- imagine what 'ole' grandpa's stories told on a front porch or around a campfire sound like and you have this book. Watch out though- do not take the book as fact. Having read this book and then conducting further research I discovered inaccuracies and holes in the story. One of my favorite stories includes 'Calamity Jane' while the the story may be true the show more date is not unless 'Calamity Jane' was a walking zombie as she'd been dead for over a year or two at the time 'Teddy Blue' claims to have conversed with her. show less

A good first person account of the trail drives of the late 1800's in the American Midwest. It was written in 1939, politically incorrect but seeringly honest of a time gone by. Cowboys aren't what they used to be.

An excellent resource for learning of the Johnson County, Wyoming "war" and the issues, people, and politics associated with it.

The book is well-researched, but reads more like a novel than a scholarly document. A number of photos enhance the book, which also includes a bibliography and index.

Since the book was published in 1966, it would be a good idea to read newer works by a number of authors. "Wyoming Range War," by John W. Davis (2010) is one such book. [My review is on LibraryThing.]

I show more obtained my copy on the used book market. show less